Caution: Private School Rankings
Why Rankings Don't Tell the Whole Story
Private school rankings can be a tempting shortcut for gauging educational quality, but they have significant limitations that make them unreliable on their own. These rankings often hinge on a narrow set of criteria, such as standardized test scores, endowment sizes, and college admission statistics.
While these numbers can provide some insight, they don’t paint the full picture of a school’s environment. Important factors like teacher quality, student engagement, and resources such as wellness programs and academic support are often overlooked.
Methodologies used to compile these rankings can differ widely between organizations, leading to inconsistent results. One ranking might emphasize financial capabilities, while another focuses primarily on academic outcomes.
This variability can result in schools that excel in creating vibrant learning atmospheres or innovative teaching methods being undervalued compared to those that have more resources but less ingenuity with regard to teaching and learning.
While rankings can offer a glimpse into a school’s strengths, they shouldn't be the only measure of quality or fit for your child. A comprehensive evaluation that considers a diverse range of qualitative and quantitative factors is essential for making an informed choice about education.
Finding the right school for your child requires a personalized approach, tailored to their unique needs and interests.
At TBG, we believe that the best way to truly assess a school is through personal visits. Our dedicated team visits numerous schools each year, gathering invaluable insights into their unique strengths and nuances. If you’re ready to make a well-informed decision about your child's education, we invite you to reach out to our knowledgeable team. Contact us at info@thebertramgroup.com to discover how we can help you find the perfect school for your needs!
By Holly McGlennon Treat
Senior Partner, Boarding School Advising
The Bertram Group